In "The Great Gatsby," F. Scott Fitzgerald employs juxtaposition to contrast the characters of Daisy Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson, as well as the two parties they attend. By juxtaposing Daisy, the wealthy and sophisticated socialite, with Myrtle, the lower-class mistress of Tom Buchanan, Fitzgerald highlights the stark differences in their social statuses and lifestyles. For example, Daisy's elegant mannerisms and luxurious surroundings are emphasized during the party at her mansion, where guests indulge in opulence and excess. In contrast, Myrtle's affair with Tom is revealed during the raucous and garish party at the apartment in New York City, showcasing the less refined and more chaotic atmosphere associated with her character. This juxtaposition serves to underscore the theme of social class and the disillusionment of the American Dream, as well as evoke contrasting emotions in the reader towards the characters. While Daisy may evoke sympathy or admiration for her glamorous facade and vulnerability, Myrtle's portrayal elicits a mix of pity and disdain due to her desperate pursuit of status and subsequent demise. Overall, Fitzgerald's use of juxtaposition enhances the reader's understanding of the characters' motivations and societal constraints, prompting reflection on themes of wealth, identity, and morality in the novel.
